Haunted 5K & Half Marathon at Hickory City Park, Hickory, NC (40S30)

Prepare for a spooktacular challenge at the Haunted 5K & Half Marathon, taking place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the scenic Hickory City Park in Hickory, NC. This thrilling Halloween-themed event kicks off at 8:30 AM, offering both a 5K and a Half Marathon distance for runners of all levels. The course features an engaging out-and-back route, with Half Marathon participants completing the 2.18-mile loop six times and 5K runners tackling it two times. The starting line is conveniently located across from the corner of 16th Ave Pl NW and 12th St Dr NW, with ample parking and restrooms available at the trailhead.

Embrace the festive atmosphere by donning your most creative costume; while not required, it's highly encouraged, with a special award for the best costume and a group photo opportunity before the race begins. All finishers will be celebrated with a unique themed medal, commemorating their achievement. With typical race day conditions seeing highs around 76°F and lows around 56°F, and only a 13% chance of precipitation, runners can anticipate pleasant autumn weather. The Half Marathon has a course time limit of 3 hours and 30 minutes.

This event is more than just a race; it's a chance to earn points towards the US Road Running Race Series, adding a competitive edge for those seeking to track their progress. Remember to register online, as there will be no on-site registration, and packet pickup begins 30 minutes before the race start, closing 10 minutes prior to ensure a smooth kickoff to your haunted run.